Football expert expresses his reservations and doubts over £10million new West Ham man

West Ham left it late in the January transfer window, bringing in 25-year-old striker Jordan Hugill for around £10million from Championship outfit Preston North End on deadline day.

The former non-league hitman has scored 10 goals in 29 appearances this season, following up with the 13 he registered in 47 games last term.

Hugill’s form attracted lots of clubs in the topflight and Championship, but Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson isn’t entirely convinced that he has what it takes to hit the ground running in the Premier League.

Grading the Hammers’ business in the window a B minus, Merson wrote about the former Port Vale star: “As for Hugill, I think it’s quite a big step from the Championship.

“People tell me there’s not much between the two divisions but I don’t agree. It’s a big jump to come up and score goals in the Premier League.”

While Hugill could truly struggle from now till May, he might end up being the next “Jamie Vardy” in 2018-19 if he eventually finds his feet like the former Fleetwood Town man did.

His physical ability and mobility make him a nuisance to any defence, and he would help provide quality depth to a West Ham attack that can’t manage to keep its players fit.